Delhi
Delhi is a uniquely historic and cosmopolitan city that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Its historic monuments, landscaped gardens, amazing food, bustling markets, vibrant art and nightlife scene, diverse cultures and youthful liveliness all make this city wonderfully dynamic. Some notable attractions include the iconic India Gate, Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, Chandi Chowk, Lotus temple and Lodhi Gardens.
Agra
Certainly one of the most well-known places in North India, Agra is famed for its historic sights, which are reminiscent of the Mughal-era. From the iconic Taj Mahal and 16th-century Agra Fort to the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri, Agra is a dream for architecture aficionados and history buffs.
Varanasi
Dating back to the 6th century BC, Varanasi is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the country. For centuries, it’s been an important site for Hindu pilgrims and spiritual seekers from across the world. People come here to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and attain inner peace, beside taking a dip in the sacred waters of the Ganges – part of an ancient ritual of purification of soul, body and mind. You’ll see around 87 ghats (flights of steps leading to the river) and more than 2,000 temples, mostly dedicated to Hindu god Shiva. Do not leave without attending the Ganga aarti (prayer ritual held every evening) and enjoying a boat ride along the Ganges.
Amritsar
Amritsar is a treasure in terms of history, culture and gastronomy. The city impresses thoroughly with its breathtakingly beautiful Golden Temple (sacred seat of Sikhism), the Wagah border (crossing lying on the grand trunk road between India and Pakistan) and the Jallianwala Bagh (a massacre memorial and garden). Make sure you try the local Punjabi food, especially the langar at the Golden Temple.
Parvati Valley
Parvati Valley beckons to nature lovers and keen adventurers. Here, visitors can discover picture-perfect villages of Kasol, Malana and Tosh – complete with unspoilt natural beauty, hippie vibes, and outdoor activities such as trekking and riverside camping. Ideal for those seeking respite from bustling city life.
Manali
At an altitude of 2,050 metres in the Beas Valley lies Manali, Manali is one of North India’s best ski places in winter. Come summer when the snows have retreated, it becomes one of the best spots for adventure enthusiasts, who can indulge in river rafting in Beas River, trekking in Rohtang Pass and Beas Kund; paragliding, zorbing and yak riding in Solang Valley. Adventurous outings not your thing? Fret not! Manali has plenty of other places on offer, including ancient temples, Tibetan monasteries, wildlife sanctuaries, art and cultural centres.
Leh-Ladakh
With Himalayas in the south and the Karakoram mountains in the north, Leh-Ladakh is a favourite retreat for trekkers and biking enthusiasts. The place is also home to several Buddhist monasteries overlooking a spectacular panoramic vista of snow-clad mountains and icy glaciers. Those seeking peace can stay at the monasteries and partake in the spiritual retreats.
Rajasthan
Dubbed the ‘Land of Kings’, Rajasthan has been captivating the hearts of locals and tourists alike for years, with its ancient forts, glamorous palaces, exquisite havelis (mansions), diverse landscape, vibrant art and culture, and traditional cuisine. Though there are many worthwhile places to explore in the royal land, the best ones include the imperial cities of Jodhpur, Bikaner and Udaipur, the pink city of Jaipur, the golden city of Jaisalmer and the holy city of Ajmer.